Geneva Motor Show Preview: 2011 Fisker Karma

Mere weeks after stealing the spotlight at the Detroit Motor Show with the voluptuous Karma S convertible, Henrik Fisker and his eponymous carrosserie have announced pricing and specs for the Fisker Karma hybrid luxury sedan, due to hit the road in early 2011. 

As a merger draws near, GM and Chrysler cull the SUV herd

In cattle ranching parlance, culling the herd is a process of selective slaughter. It is a metered and carefully planned elimination of the weak and unfit, done to protect the rest of the herd either from disease or in hard times, from starvation.

General Motors and Chrysler both sharpened their fiscal axes today and took drastic steps to ensure their continued survival. Upon unanimous approval by the board of directors, GM announced it has cancelled Project CXX, a $2 billion program to replace the aging Cadillac Escalade, GMC Yukon and Chevrolet Suburban sport-utility vehicles.

“It would have been very difficult in today’s environment to spend a couple of billion dollars to do a replacement,” said Bob Lutz, GM’s vice chairman and head of product development in a statement.

All three full-size sport utes — which a decade ago were icons of a resurgent GM — are now living on borrowed time. With the recent truck plant closures in Ohio and Wisconsin, the current generation of sport-utes will only be built for as long as sales volume remains self-sustaining.

Sales of sport-utility vehicles have steadily waned since 2004. As the highly profitable market shrank, losses continued to mount at all of the Big Three. And after posting a $18.8 billion loss in the second quarter of 2008, GM is reported to be in the final stages of a merger with embattled Chrysler LLC. While 2008 hasn't been kind to any domestic automaker, GM will likely suffer the worst in the coming months; its passenger cars were often sold as loss-makers and the company staked it's continued success on its line of sport-utes.

Layoffs at GM plants are set to continue, with Janesville, the firm's oldest and most reliant on sport-ute production, set to close by Christmas. If the Chrysler merger goes through, further layoffs are expected.

Chrysler pulls plug on Aspen & Durango hybrids
Earlier this week, Chrysler announced it would close its Newark, Del. plant nearly a year ahead of schedule. As a result, the Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen Hybrid sport-utes will be culled before they complete their first full model year.

Production of the two full-size hybrid sport-utes began two months ago, just in time to be scorched in September, the worst month of U.S. auto sales in 15 years.

Speaking with Automotive News, Chrysler spokesman Todd Goyer said the company had no plans to move the Aspen and Durango hybrids elsewhere. "Keeping the plant open for the hybrid versions isn't a sound business decision," he said.

1,000 Chrysler employees will be laid off when the final shift is completed on Dec. 31, 2008.

The Detroit News reports there are no signs that Chrysler will commit to another body-on-frame full-size sport-ute. Ford has already committed to a unibody layout for the next Ford Explorer, following the lead established by Honda with their Pilot sport-ute and Ridgeline pickup truck.

Unibody layouts used stamped steel sections that are welded together to form the structure of an automobile. Commonly used to build passenger cars, unibody designs are typically 10 to 20 percent lighter — and hence, can be more fuel-efficient — than a similarly sized body-on-frame vehicle.

[ NYT, AN, DTN]

MPG-o-rama! 2010 Prius leak confirmed; Toyota speaks on Scion iQ rumors

Fuel misers rejoice! We've got a double shot of Toyota MPG-centric news for you tonight.

Last night, while I was off waxing poetic about the British and their victory in the Nevada desert 11 years hence, the internet was boiling over with rumors that the 2010 Prius had done the full-monty strip show.

After weeks of execrable teaser shots, it's true. The design of the 2010 Toyota Prius has indeed been revealed in its entirety. It all started at PriusChat.com, where member bossdowner posted four pictures of the third generation Prius.

After a day of speculation, the truth was revealed when the lads at Jalopnik sat down with Toyota's PR reps. They confirmed the pictures were legit, but declined to comment further.

So we have no other information about the car at this time. Instead, we'll all have to wait until the car's official unveiling at the Detroit Motor Show in January.

Or until the next leak gushes forth.

Toyota engineer confirms iQ under review for sale in USA
In other news, one of Toyota's top engineers has confirmed the Japanese automaker is considering selling the new iQ subcompact in the United States.

Speaking with Automotive News, Hiroki Nakajima said that Toyota is investigating the idea and that he expects a launch date before the iQ is given a mid-model refresh. Sales of the iQ begin in Japan on November 20; the tiny Toyota is a 2+2 competitor to the 2-seat Smart forTwo subcompact.

While the JDM model is powered by a 1.0-liter SOHC 12-valve inline-3, Nakajima said there is plenty of room to install the 1.5-liter DOHC 16-valve four currently used in the Toyota Yaris compact hatchback.

The iQ's unique transmission - which sits below the engine rather than behind the engine - would carry over, as it is crucial to maximizing space within the iQ's 77-inch wheelbase.

And as we reported earlier this week, the iQ is quite thifty. While the EU testing regimen differs from ours, 65 mpg is quite a feat. Even if that figure drops by 15 percent due to added weight and a larger motor, the smart forTwo would have face stiff competition in a market it currently owns.

But first, a reality check. Tossing aside the rose-colored glasses for a moment, there are a few hurdles the iQ must clear before we see it stateside.

A number of changes must be made to the iQ unit-body structure. Speaking with Automotive News, Nakajima said the iQ's airbags would need to be redesigned and the bumpers would need to be strengthened to pass federal safety standards.

Another issue is price. The 118-inch long iQ might be dinky, but the price tag isn't. In Japan, the iQ retails for between $13,860 and $15,840 (¥1.4M - ¥1.6M). It's a safe bet to add another $1,000 to cover the cost of shipping and retooling the iQ to meet US safety standards.

And even though the rumor mill has the iQ pegged as a new Scion, it doesn't really change the marketing math. Assuming the iQ is priced near $16,000, the subcompact will fight it out with the Honda Fit Sport, Toyota's own Yaris sedan and Scions' own xD hatch.

At the bottom end of the market, profit margins are often very slim. And the entire industry is headed into a very turbulent economy. With sales of new cars tanking this year and 2009 expected to be just as bleak, the iQ might only steal sales from within the Toyota family.

But then again, I might be the one who's off base. After all, I was rattling on about supersonic rocket cars — humming Rule Brittania [MP3]— while all this came to pass.

[AN]

Resurgence in Flint: Volt, Cruze engines to be built in Michigan

General Motors CEO Rick Wagoner announced today that the automaker will build engines for the Chevrolet Volt and Chevrolet Cruze in Flint, Michigan at a entirely new plant. Construction of the new factory will commence immediately.

The plant will begin producing the company's new 1.4-liter dual overhead cam Inline-four in 2010. The $370 million investment will include a 552,000 square foot facility, machinery and tooling to build the new engines.

The plant will build two 1.4-liter inline-fours: a 140-horsepower turbocharged motor to be used in the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, and a naturally-aspirated version to be used with the 2010 Chevrolet Volt extended-range electric vehicle.

Both engines will feature variable valve timing for both the intake and exhaust cams. Both engines will also use a molded resin intake manifold to save weight.

Final horsepower figures have not been released for the naturally aspirated motor.

The new engines are part of a global engine family dating back to 1997, debuting as a 1.6-liter inline-four for the Opel & Vauxhall Corsa.

Speaking with Automotive News, Tom Stephens, GM Powertrain Group vice president, said production would start at 800 engines per day. Stevens didn't say how production would be split between the two motors.

Today's news comes as a watershed moment for Flint as well. In 1984, General Motors CEO Roger Smith closed the automaker's largest plant in Flint, a town that once was a symbol of GM's manufacturing might.

The plant closure eliminated 300,000 jobs and sent the town of Flint — which grew up around the plant — into severe decline, as later documented in the 1989 film "Roger and Me."

Speaking of the company's return to its roots in Flint, Wagoner said that "GM, the UAW and the city of Flint have had a long-standing relationship. We are confident that Flint is exactly the right place to build our all-new powertrain plant."

[AN, GM]

Auto News Wrapup: F-bombs, tax bills and buyouts

Cerberus in talks to buy out Daimler AG stake in Chrysler

A day after the company's bold assertion to enter the EV market in less than three years, Chrysler may soon be owned wholly by current majority shareholder Cerberus Capital Management.

This afternoon, officials from both companies confirmed the talks regarding the sale of the 19.9 percent stake Daimler currently holds in Chrysler LLC. A spokesman for Cerberus Capital Management also said that the current supplier agreements between Daimler and Chrysler would continue after a potential sale.

The private-equity firm Cerberus bought 80.1 percent of Chrysler from Daimler AG in August 2007 for $7.4 billion. Chrysler Holding encompasses Chrysler LLC, the automaker, and DaimlerChrysler Financial Services Americas LLC, known to the market as Chrysler Financial.

"It's still very early to tell why this is happening," Aaron Bragman, auto analyst at Global Insight, told Reuters. Bragman posited that the full purchase of Chrysler may be a prelude to selling the automaker whole to a third party.

House approves $25 billion in auto industry loans; Senate passes $7,500 tax credit for plug-in hybrids

As the mortgage bailout dog and pony show continues on Capitol Hill today, the House of Representatives voted 370 to 58 in favor of a $25 billion aid package for American automakers and suppliers. The bill sponsors the issuance of low-interest government-backed mortgages that would allow automakers to retool factories and expedite the production of more fuel-efficient vehicles.

The Senate is expected to vote on the budget bill by week's end; President Bush is likely to sign it. When signed, the new loan program will set a new precedent in government involvement within the auto industry, far exceeding the 1979 bill which provided loan guarantees to Chrysler Corporation.

Rep. John Dingell, D-Mich., chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, said in a statement:

"Some critics will call this loan package a bailout. It is not. These loans amount to a little more than 1 percent of the real bailout -- the one that the Bush administration wants for Wall Street at a cost of $700 billion to taxpayers.

"The loans to the automakers will cost about $7 billion and will be repaid to the taxpayer at a profit," Dingell said. "The auto direct-loan package is a good deal for auto workers and a good deal for taxpayers."

Rep. Jerry Lewis, R-Calif., ranking member on the House Appropriations Committee, complained that the bill was put together by a handful of Democratic leaders and the vote was taken before it was properly reviewed in session.

Chevy Volt to qualify for maximum plug-in hybrid tax credit

Meanwhile in the Senate, General Motors is one step closer to their wish of a $7500 tax credit to help jump-start sales of the Chevrolet Volt. In a wide-ranging and intricate tax bill, a small provision creating a new tax credit for buyers of plug-in electric vehicles was passed today.

The credit would start at $2,500 and rise to as much as $7,500 for a light-duty vehicle, depending on battery capacity. As currently written, the Chevrolet Volt qualifies for the maximum tax credit. The measure would begin to phase out tax credits for plug-in electrics after 250,000 units have sold — a marked contrast to the 2005 tax bill that began to phase out after only 60,000 units.

The complex tax bill ricocheted through the various subcommittees for months, but when the votes was taken, the bill passed by 93-to-2. The House must still act on the bill, but with the upcoming recess for the election, a vote is expected by week's end. The White House dropped objections to some provisions unrelated to the plug-in hybrid tax credit.

As of a few days ago, Toyota officials complained that the 2011 plug-in hybrid Prius would be excluded from the tax credit. It's unclear how far the Senate moved to meet Toyota's objections, but it appears the issue has been resolved.

Dropping "F" Bombs: Ford family heir sells 1M shares of company stock

And in our last news item of the night: Bill Ford, chairman of Ford Motor Company and grandson of founder Henry Ford, dumped one million shares of common stock on Sept. 19 — in part to pay off debt incurred by exercising stock options in 2004 and 2005.

Ford sold the shares at an average weighted sale price of $5.05 on Thursday and continues to hold more than 5.3 million shares of common stock in the automaker, according to a filing on Friday with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

Ford bought over 1.4 million common shares in the company since March 2004 and another 1.5 million in March 2005 after exercising options granted over the years, according to SEC filings. Share prices fell in the immediate aftermath of Friday's sale before rebounding to close at $5.03 tonight.

[AN, Reuters]

Chrysler unveils 3 EV prototypes, will enter EV market by 2010

A few weeks after this blog set sail, I wrote at length about the difficulties Chrysler would face and the cause for concern that majority owner Cerberus Capital Management would simply dismantle the company and sell it off piecemeal.

While the storm clouds have yet to fully part, today's announcement is precisely the type of good news the market has waited months to hear.

After a brief preview on CNBC yesterday, Chrysler LLC unveiled a trio of electric vehicle prototypes this morning.

* The Dodge EV, an all-electric sports car developed with British automaker Lotus.
* The Chrysler EV, an extended-range electric vehicle based on the Chrysler Town & Country minivan.
* The Jeep EV, an extended-range electric vehicle based on the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited.


Chrysler said it would bring one of the three prototypes to market in 2010 -- precisely when Chevrolet will start selling the Volt plug-in electric sedan.

The Dodge EV sports coupe — based off the Lotus Europa — takes direct aim at the Tesla roadster, relying on a 26 killowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack to power the car's electric drivetrain. Chrysler claims a driving range of 150 to 200 miles and a 0-60 time under 5 seconds.

The Chrysler EV and Jeep EV both use a drivetrain similar in concept to that of the Volt. Electric power drives the wheels at all speeds. When the on-board battery is depleted, a small gasoline engine drives a generator to simultaneously recharge the battery pack and power the vehicle's electric motor. An AC-to-DC converter is included to allow overnight charging via a 110 or 220-volt power outlet.

Chrysler chose the Town & Country minivan as the benchmark vehicle for developing a front-wheel-drive setup, while the Jeep Wrangler was used to explore use of an electric drivetrain in a body-on-frame SUV.

And lest the idea of an electric-powered trail-blazing SUV sound preposterous, think for a moment of the advantages. Instant torque at zero rpm from an engine that doesn't mind which way it's oriented. No noise for your spotter to shout instructions over.

And the fuel savings are substantial. Chrysler claims that with approximately eight gallons of gasoline, both EVs have a range of 400 miles, including 40 miles of zero fuel-consumption, zero-emissions, all-electric operation.

The end goal of Chrysler's EV program is to build a "plug-n-play" electric-gasoline drivetrain that can be offered across the entire Chrysler range.

To that end, Chrysler has launched a new web site to spread the word on the company's electric and extended range electric vehicle development programs. Seeing as how Chrysler is ostensibly betting the company's future on electric power, we'll be keeping a close eye on future developments.

[Sources: Chrysler LLC, CNBC, AN, AO, MT]

2011 Chevrolet Volt debuts on General Motors' centennial

A day after a tidal wave of insolvency inundated Wall Street creditors and set the Dow Jones tumbling, General Motors celebrated its centennial.

And in the midst of such turbulent economic tides, there was hardly a better way to celebrate than with the unveiling of the production ready 2010 Chevrolet Volt.

“It is a great way to open our second century,” said Rick Wagoner, GM Chairman and CEO. “The Volt is symbolic of GM’s strong commitment to the future … just the kind of technology innovation that our industry needs to respond to today’s and tomorrow’s energy and environmental challenges.”

Innovative design throughout
At first glance, it's clear that a healthy amount of time was spent honing the Volt's aerodynamics. On the whole, the production appears retains much of the concept's design essence while at the same time making concessions to aerodynamic and cost efficiency.

The Volt's rounded and flush front fascia, tapered corners and grille are the most readily apparent changes, all designed to minimize turbulence and the aerodynamic drag that results. Out back, the rear fender, spoiler and steeply raked rear window combine to form a faceted, sleek composition that allows air to flow off and away quickly.

Inside, the Volt offers a broad, airy cockpit for four, packed with leading-edge technology. Prominently placed in the center console is the Volt's standard touch-sensitive infotainment screen. The screen is used to display information about the battery's state of charge, climate control and audio systems.

Standard audio will include a six-speaker MP3 enabled CD player with AM/FM radio, as well as Bluetooth networking for hands-free phone integration and music streaming from a Bluetooth-enabled personal music player. Navigation will be offered as an option; the system will also include an on-board hard drive for storing both the navigation system's maps and music recorded from CDs.

In lieu of conventional analog gauges, the Volt uses a color LCD screen which the driver can reconfigure to his or her liking. More details on the instrumentation will come to light as release date nears.

All of this design and technological wizardry is an accessory to the key innovation of the Volt — its electric-gasoline drivetrain.

Under the hood, electrons abound... gasoline optional
Unlike a conventional gasoline-electric hybrid, the Volt's electric motor drives the car's wheels all the time at all speeds. For up to 40 miles on a full charge, the 16 kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery provides all the vehicle's power, which means no gasoline used and no tailpipe emissions.

When the battery is depleted, a gasoline-powered engine turns an on-board generator, providing electricity to power the Volt's electric drive unit and simultaneously sustaining the charge of the battery.

Unlike previous electric vehicles, the Volt will never leave the driver stranded by a flat battery. Further enhancing the car's efficient drivetrain, the Volt can be plugged into either a standard household 120-volt or 240-volt for direct charging of the onboard battery off of mains power.

At 240 volts, the Volt will fully recharge in three hours; eight hours are required with a 120v outlet. Charge times are reduced if the battery has not been fully depleted. At a cost of about 80 cents per day (10 cents per kilowatt-hour) for a full charge that will deliver up to 40 miles of electric driving, GM estimates that the Volt will be less expensive to recharge than purchasing a cup of your favorite coffee.

Charging the Volt about once daily will consume less electric energy annually than the average home's refrigerator. For a driver that stays within the Volt's 40 mile electric-only range and recharges off of mains power, about 500 gallons of fuel will be saved. At an average price of $3.60 per gallon, that’s a yearly savings of $1,800. Commuters with a 60 mile round trip commute could save up to 550 gallons, or $1,980 per year.

In addition to offering substantial fuel savings, the Volt's electric drive unit offers spirited driving performance in a remarkably quiet interior. The Volt delivers the equivalent of 150 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of instant torque to the wheels. Top speed is electronically limited to 100 miles per hour. The lack of engine noise, combined with special sound-deadening materials make the Chevrolet Volt a particularly quiet vehicle to drive.

An American Revolution (we hope)
The last remaining step in the Volt's production process is to settle on a location for the plant.

Wagoner has expressed interest in keeping Volt production stateside and has begun lobbying Congress for tax incentives both on production and retail sales of the Volt.

Assuming all goes well, the Volt will begin rolling off the line at GM's Detroit-Hamtramck manufacturing facility in late 2010. Pricing has not yet been announced, but we will continue to follow the Volt as further details emerge.

[GM]

2010 Porsche Panamera teaser shot, hybrid model details released

Porsche's released the first official "teaser" shot of the Panamera sedan today, along with early details on a hybrid version.

The Panamera will likely go on sale immediately following its debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2009.

In addition to the photo, the German automaker has posted videos online of disguised Panamera prototypes running on various test drives.

Porsche will conduct a direct-mail marketing campaign this fall, targeting current Porsche owners as prospective buyers for the Panamera.

Whether you love or loathe the idea of a Porsche sedan, here's what we know (or can safely assume) about the 2010 Panamera's specifications:

• The car is front engine, rear drive, measures nearly 5 meters long, about 2 meters wide and is estimated to weigh about 1700 kg.

• Three engines will be available at launch: a 300-horsepower 3.6-liter V-6, a 405-horsepower 4.8-liter V-8 and a twin-turbocharged 4.8-liter V-8 producing approximately 520 horsepower.

• According to Autobild, the base model is capable of 250 km/h; the 4.8 twin turbo Panamera should be able to manage 300 km/h. All Panamera models will offer the dopplekupplung seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox which recently debuted on the 2009 Porsche 911 Carrera model range.

• The Panamera will be the first Porsche to offer a hybrid drivetrain option, combing the base 3.6-liter V-6 with a 110-horsepower electric motor. Autobild reports that the Panamera will be able to move under electric power alone at low speed.

A second teaser shot is due to be released on October 20. We've included a 1280 x 796 version of the press photo as well as a cropped detail shot for your downloading pleasure. As more information becomes available, we'll bring it to you first at NMM.

[Image Credit: Porsche NA]
[MotorAuthority]

Video: Renault Ondelios Concept merges Gallic style, high tech for ultimate luxury

Crossover, trucklet, compact SUV.

All of these words might spring to mind at the first sight of Renault's latest concept. Yet the Gallic automaker sees the Ondelios as a vision of the future high-end luxury sedan, blending performance and luxury with respect for the environment.

We wrap up this week with a detailed examination of the Renault Ondelios — a machine that challenges traditional design concepts in the interest of advancing the art of the luxury automobile.

"Motion rather than speed"
"Ondelios is inspired by motion rather than speed and is a whole new response to the call of the open road," said Patrick Le Quément, design director for Renault.

Sitting on seven-spoke, 23-inch aluminum alloys, the wheels are at first glance the centerpiece of the Ondelios' design. Their propeller-like hubs draw airflow from the sides of the car to prevent turbulence and cool the brake rotors. Rolling on 255/40 R23 next-generation Michelin Pilot Sport tires, the tread pattern is designed to minimize deformation of the contact patch, reducing rolling resistance and offering responsive handling.

Unified design through advanced materials
In designing the Ondelios, spaciousness, efficiency and avant-garde style were top priorities. Le Quément chose to use broad gullwing doors to span the pillarless opening, allowing easy entry into all three rows of seats. At the push of a button, the second row of seats will automatically slide forward and fold down to facilitate access to the third row.

Outside, the fully glazed roof, broad windscreen and low window sill are all complimented by flush-fitting glass and anthracite blue bodywork, lending the car a windswept and unified look. The steeply raked windscreen, which extends well down the bonnet, further accentuates this ethereal feel.

"We think of it as made from a single material, where the body and glazed areas merge into one. Ondelios is a glimpse of what the automobile might be in the medium term future," said Le Quément.

At the front, the Ondelios' aluminum grille is flanked by highly efficient LED headlamps with sculpted polycarbonate covers featuring integrated lenses. Out back, boomerang-shaped LED tail lights are mounted flush with the bodywork and ringed with air extractors to control the flow of air from the wheel arches. The tailgate's upper section rounds off the car's sleek, aerodynamic lines with a glare shield that slides inwards to air and cool the cabin.

These advanced aerodynamic aids are key to the Ondelios concept's efficiency. Proving that not all hybrids need to be miniaturized, anodyne and awkward, the 5 meter long and 1.6 meter high Ondelios uses a fully enclosed undercarriage to deliver a drag coefficient of 0.26, rivaling the Toyota Prius for wind-cheating efficiency.

To compliment the extensive aerodynamic tuning, the Ondelios is also designed to be highly recyclable. Non-structural body parts are made from a natural flax fiber composite for greater recyclability. Since weight is also a detriment to fuel efficiency, the car's monocoque is made from carbon fiber and the glazed roof from polycarbonate.

Next generation diesel hybrid power
Under the hood, the Renault Ondelios features a diesel-electric drivetrain; a 205-horsepower 2.0 liter turbodiesel four and two 20kW electric motors positioned at the front and rear axles, respectively.

The Ondelios will run on electric power alone using the front electric motor at speeds up to 45 mph. The torque-rich diesel four and the rear electric motor add power during acceleration; regenerative braking is used to charge the on-board battery pack.

When traction is poor, the rear electric motor will activate, providing all-wheel-drive stability without relying on a heavy and drag-laden mechanical driveshaft. Thus, the Ondelios provides all-wheel-drive traction when it is beneficial and front-wheel drive efficiency when it isn't needed.

The Ondelios can hustle from 0 to 60 mph in 7 seconds, while using 4.5 liters of diesel every 100 kilometers. CO2 emissions are also remarkably low; a mere 120 grams per kilometer. An impressive feat for such a large sedan.



The bottom line: Renault has taken the concept of spaciousness and environmentalism and applied cutting- edge design and materials to create a genre-defying expression of a 21st century luxury automobile.

Like most of Renault's show cars, the design is fanciful with heaps of show car tinsel, but the fundamental technology is already here. The future of the automobile is a lot closer than you'd expect; this is Renault's vision.
----
[Video: Renault via R2R]
[Pictures: Renault via ABG]

Fisker Automotive secures $65 million from US, Qatar investors

Fisker Automotive of Los Angeles, Calif. announced its latest investment deal today, through which the startup automaker will receive $65 million in new capital.

The deal was lead by an affiliate of Qatar Investment Authority, along with representatives from Palo Alto Investors and Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers.

"We are extremely pleased to have closed our financing round at this time, particularly in light of the current market conditions," CEO Henrik Fisker said in a statement. "This shows that Fisker Automotive has a solid business plan and a globally experienced automotive team with very strong investors behind the company."

The proceeds from today's deal will go toward continued development of the Fisker Karma.

In addition to being the company's first automobile to be based on a custom built chassis, the Fisker Karma will be the company's first hybrid vehicle. Featuring plug-in hybrid technology the electric powertrain will allow drivers to drive emission-free for 50 miles a day, provided that the car is recharged every night.

In 2003, former Aston Martin design chief Henrik Fisker founded Fisker Coachbuild LLC.

Fisker launched the firm with the Tramonto and Latigo sports cars, both custom designs penned by Fisker and based off the BMW 6-series coupe and Mercedes-Benz SL-series convertible.

Shortly after the Fisker Karma concept (pictured at right) was unveiled in 2007, Fisker Automotive was founded by Fisker Coachbuild LLC and engineering partner Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies, which will design and build the Karma's hybrid drivetrain.

Fisker Automotive has received more than 500 orders since the Karma's unveiling, delivery of the first customer vehicles are expected to start by the end of 2009.

[AN]

2010 Honda Insight Concept debuts ahead of Paris Motor Show

After watching Toyota release a panoply of hybrids to complement the Prius, Honda is going on the offensive.

In 1999, Honda made headlines with the Insight, the first gasoline-electric hybrid auto offered for sale in the US market. The first vehicle to break the 70-mpg fuel economy barrier, the Insight was designed from the ground up for fuel economy in a diminutive two-seat hatchback.

Ten years on, Honda has revived the nameplate for a new 5-door hybrid hatchback designed compete on price with the Toyota Prius. While the final price has yet to be set, word on the street is that the Insight will sticker for well under $20,000.

Official photos of next-generation Insight concept were released today; the production version of the new Insight will debut on October 2 at the Paris Motor Show.

"The original Honda Insight pioneered hybrid technology in the U.S. and remains a symbol of Honda's commitment to innovative technology and fuel efficiency," said Takeo Fukui, CEO of Honda Motor Company. "This new Insight will break new ground as an affordable hybrid within the reach of customers who want great fuel economy and great value."

In addition to expanding their hybrid product range, the new Insight will become Honda's first global hybrid offering. The Japanese automaker is planning to sell 200,000 Insights per year, with half of those sales coming from the US market. Stateside sales will start next next spring, with the Insight selling as 2010 model.

[Honda]

'09 Civic range debuts with new trim levels, aesthetic tweaks and tech packages

After a series of brochure scans leaked to the Web yesterday, Honda has quelled the rumor mill by laying all their cards on the table.

In a nutshell, all Civic models receive a host of minor styling tweaks; a new front bumper, headlights and grille as well as revised taillights. On sedan models, a small chromed strip on the trunk now flanks the Honda badge.

It's a classic case of not messing with a good thing and as a result only the eagle-eyed will spot the changes at distance. Which is no slight; the futuristic design has sold well.

The big news for '09 comes in the form of new technology packages and trim levels.

Models equipped with the factory navigation system will now also include Bluetooth hands-free cellphone integration. Civic EX, EX-L, Hybrid and Si models will also receive a standard USB-Audio port that allows easy MP3 player integration with the factory stereo. EX-L and Hybrid models will also receive Honda's VSA electronic stability control system as standard equipment.

A leather trimmed interior with heated front seats and side mirrors will also be offered for the Civic Hybrid starting next year. Across the range, new upholstery patterns on seats, door linings and armrests have all been updated to further enhance the interior's look and feel.

Rounding out the changes, two new model trims join the lineup for 2009. At the top of the range, the Civic LX-S Sedan debuts with alloy wheels, sport-trimmed black cloth seats with synthetic suede bolsters, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, rear deck spoiler and a chrome exhaust finisher. The Civic DX Value Package (DX-VP) sedan builds on the Civic DX standard features by adding air conditioning and a factory stereo.

As expected, drivetrains remain unchanged across the board. The DX, DX-VP, LX, EX and EX-L soldier on with a 140-horsepower 1.8 liter iVTEC inline-four with either a 5-speed manual or automatic transmission.

The Si sedan and coupe continue with their 197-horsepower 2.0 liter iVTEC fours mated to a six-speed manual transmission.

The Civc Hybrid is powered by a 120-horsepower 1.3-liter i-VTEC inline-four with Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) gasoline-electric hybrid technology to enhance both fuel economy and performance, and is equipped with a continuously variable transmission.

Lastly, the Civic GX is powered by a dedicated natural gas version of the Civic's 1.8-liter i-VTEC engine - and is equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Both Civic Hybrid and Civic GX are classified as Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicles (AT-PZEV) by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). The Civic GX is classified by the EPA as an Inherently Low Emissions Vehicle (ILEV).

[Source: Honda]

Nissan unveils hybrid Infiniti prototype

Nearly a year and a half after the introduction of the Altima Hybrid, Nissan unveiled two new prototypes that indicate the future of the company's low and zero-emission vehicles.

A version of the Infiniti G37 sedan was presented, showcasing a parallel gasoline-electric hybrid drivetrain.

In addition to the award-winning VQ-series 3.7 liter V-6, the prototype hybrid uses a pair of electric motors. Both motors are equipped with computer controlled clutches. By combining or alternating power from one or both sources, the hybrid Infiniti can run solely on electric power at low speeds and merge both gasoline and electric power for improved acceleration.

Of importance to enthusiast drivers, the Nissan drivetrain merges electric and gasoline power before it is routed through the transmission. Unlike Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive which relies on a planetary gearbox to divy up the work between the electric and gas motors, Nissan's system can be equipped with either an conventional automatic or manual gearbox.

When the Infiniti hybrid will hit the streets is still anyone's guess, but today's announcement proves indisputably that Nissan will continue to invest in hybrid automobiles.

[Source]

VIDEO: Reconsidering the MPG benchmark

Miles per gallon. In the US, it is the ubiquitous standard of fuel economy.
Expressed in the most literal terms possible, there shouldn't be any confusion.

And yet there is.

When it comes to making purchasing decisions that affect how much gasoline we use per capita, it can lead buyers to make false assumptions.

Which will save more gasoline: swapping a 10 mpg truck for a 20 mpg model?
Or trading a 25 mpg car for one that gets 50?

A pair of Duke University business statisticians cast a critical eye on the MPG benchmark and came up with some interesting conclusions. Check out the video below:



Viewed in real-world terms, the study makes a convincing case for using hybrid technology in heavy commercial vehicles. FedEx and UPS already employ small fleets of hybrid delivery trucks and plan to integrate more of them into their fleet.

In the long term, 50 miles per gallon is an admirable and achievable goal for our commuter cars. But any net fuel savings remains a goal worth pursuing, even when it comes from unlikely sources.

Däs boost: All Mercedes cars to be turbocharged by 2010

For those of you who still mourn the passing of the C32 AMG and its silken supercharged six, take solace.

Within the next 30 months, Mercedes-Benz will roll out a series of smaller displacement turbocharged engines to improve gas mileage without sacrificing performance.

Emissions compliance is also a factor in the decision to choose forced induction over big displacement. The EU will begin to fine automakers whose fleet CO2 output exceeds 178 grams per km starting in 2012. Without resorting to smaller, force-fed engines, the fleet will not comply with the new law.

A similar emissions law is under consideration in the US Congress.
Incidentally, the S-class übersedan will be offered with a full hybrid drivetrain by 2009.

In the announcement, Daimler board member and R&D chief Thomas Weber also said that a zero-emission production vehicle is among the auto maker's long-term goals. In addition to electric vehicles, hydrogen fuel cells are also being considered for future Benzes.

A full-electric version of the ForTwo from Mercedes sister brand Smart will go into production in 2010.

New Zealand firm announces hybrid retrofit kit

As gas prices continue to soar, the waiting lists for nearly every hybrid on the market have grown ever longer. Many would-be buyers are coming from SUVs and light trucks, both of which are being hammered on resale value as new inventory stalls on dealer lots.

Now there's an alternative.

Octafuel - a manufacturer of hydrogen fuel cells - has developed a regenerative braking system that can be retrofitted to nearly any vehicle.

“Regenerative braking is about recovering energy when drivers put their foot on the brake – which reduces fuel costs,”said Fresnel in a release announcing the new systems.

Using standardized battery packs and electric motors, each application is customized to fit the specific vehicle and work with the car's original gasoline or diesel drivetrain.

“The technology is well-proven, having been fitted to more than a million motor cars worldwide over a variety of operating conditions, and now OctaFuel has taken the essence of that technology and made it affordable for everyday people," said Fresnel.

Fresnel is mum about the wattage or storage capacity, but notes that the Octafuel retrofit will pay itself back much faster than an all-new hybrid car.

Prices range between NZ$1,247 for the entry level system suited for commuter cars to NZ$5947 for the commercial grade system better suited to large cars and light trucks.

[Link]

Smart forTwo to receive gas saving upgrade this fall

Already renowned for being stingy with gas, the nimble Smart forTwo will become more efficient with the introduction of auto-stop engine management beginning in October.

Despite being marketed by Smart as a "micro hybrid", the name is misleading.

The forTwo will not carry any batteries nor an electric motor as found in the Toyota Prius or Camry hybrid; there simply isn't room for either.

Instead, the auto-stop feature will save fuel by shutting down the forTwo's engine and shift to neutral as the car coasts to a stop. The engine will shut down when the car slows below five miles per hour and the brakes are applied. The engine will restart immediately when the brakes are released.

City fuel economy will rise by eight percent, to 36 miles per gallon in the US EPA drive cycle. Carbon dioxide emissions will be reduced to 103 grams per kilometer, according to preliminary tests by Smart.

The auto-stop upgrade will also come standard on the diesel-powered CDI Smart range when production restarts next year. However, the diesel models will not be coming to US shores.

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Toyota to idle truck, SUV plants, begin US assembly of Prius

Responding to the decline in sales that prompted GM's shift from light trucks, Toyota will idle its Tundra and Sequoia production line in San Antonio, Texas for three months starting August 8.

While sales of the Sequoia SUV rose marginally, sales of the recently redesigned Tundra fell by 54 percent last month, signalling a reaction by consumer to sustained high oil prices and dragging Toyota's overall monthly sales down by 21 percent for the month.

Production of the Sequoia full-size SUV will also be idled at Toyota's plant in Princeton, Indiana. Production of the Sienna minivan will continue at Princeton during the transition, spokesman Mike Goss said.

During the shutdown, the Princeton plant will switch to the smaller and more fuel efficient Highlander SUV, which originally slated to be built at the Blue Springs, Mississipppi plant currently under construction.

Instead, the Mississipppi plant will begin production of the Prius hybrid in late 2010. This will be the first factory outside of Japan to produce the iconic hybrid.

The increase in production comes in response to a sustained increase in demand brought about by $4-per-gallon gasoline in the United States.

As reported by the Associated Press, sales of the Prius fell 34 percent last month as Toyota failed to meet demand for the 46 miles per gallon car. Priuses are sitting on the lot for just four or five days before they're sold, according to Tom Libby, senior director of industry analysis for the Power Information Network, a branch of J.D. Power and Associates.

By contrast, the Toyota Tundra pickup is on the lot for an average 64 days before it is sold.

Toyota has 13 North American plants and two under construction in Mississippi and Ontario. The automaker has more than 43,000 workers in North America.

Toyota's U.S. shares rose $1.12, or 1.2 percent, to $92.60 in New York trading today, following the announcement.

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GM hybrid fleet rolls out in oil-rich Dubai

In a deal with General Motors, the Dubai Roads & Transport Authority has begun a year-long field test of five Chevrolet Malibu and five Chevrolet Tahoe hybrids.

Despite being flush with oil reserves, the agency has expressed interest in cutting their operating costs and pursuing more ecologically conscious means of transport. GM was the first manufacturer to respond to a global invitation issued by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, then ruler of Dubai.

Maktoum currently serves as vice president and prime minister of the United Arab Emirates.

The primary goal of the test fleet is to see how the hybrid drivetrains — and the batteries in particular — respond to the extreme climate in the Middle East. Information gathered from the test fleet will help GM engineers determine a "real-time expectation for the batteries" lifespan in such extreme heat.

Emissions and fuel economy will also be monitored.

The Dubai RTA currently operates 6,000 vehicles and has announced that it will replace its entire fleet with more fuel-efficient models, pending the outcome of this and other trial programs.

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News Brief: Hyundai to sell LPG hybrid Elantra in 2009

Beginning next June, Hyundai will leapfrog Toyota and Honda in the next-generation battery race with their first LPG hybrid, the Elantra LPI.

Based on the Elantra wagon available in Europe and Asia, the Elantra LPI will feature a liquid petroleum gas version of their 1.6 liter Gamma inline-4 paired with a 15kW electric motor bolstered by lithium polymer batteries.

Sales of the LPI be restricted to the Korean market at first; distribution is expected to include to Asia and Europe in early 2010.

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